Alberta College of Art + Design is located in Calgary on the North Hill overlooking the Bow River and the downtown skyline, in a 245,000 square foot building that was designed in 1973 specifically as an art college.
ACAD's close proximity to downtown, via light rail transit, is a distinct advantage to students, providing them with easy access to Calgary's galleries, museums and cultural events.

ACAD is committed to a solid studio-based experience for students in fine art, design and new media - an experience balanced with relevant, complementary liberal studies and practical theory.
The result is a rigorous studio program, which produces innovative thinkers, creative problem solvers, and visually talented students.
ACAD creates a learning environment rich in character and extensive in quantity, quality and professional capability for its student body of artistic thinkers.

ACAD studios are extremely spacious and classes are small, allowing for regular one-on-one interaction.
Faculty and space-per-student ratios are among the best in the country.
Within this environment, students receive the techniques, tools, intellectual stimulation and encouragement to discover and develop their own personal voice and passion.

ACAD Mission: ACAD is a leading centre for education and research, and a catalyst for creative inquiry and cultural development.

Building Culture. Creating Possibilities
For more than 80 years, the college has educated some of Canada's most potent designers, artists and cultural producers.
As one of only four degree-granting and freestanding institutions of art and design education in Canada, we understand that ours is a unique responsibility.
ACAD has charted its course as an institution that makes a difference; an institution that supports and leads the development of culture and innovation in the broadest sense and provokes thought and action in the most optimistic directions.
We cultivate debate, explore together and stir culture for ourselves and for our external community.
Lance Carlson, President + CEO